TALKING PICTURES

Press, Volume LXIX, Issue 21010, 11 November 1933, Page 3

TALKING PICTURES

CIVIC THEATRE

"THE LITTLE DAMOZEL"

The British and Dominion film "The Little Damozel," holder of the boxoffice record for London, will be screened at the Civic Theatre to-day. During the first week at the Plaza Theatre, London, crowds beseiged the theatre, and 50.000 patrons, including the Prince of Wales, witnessed this entrancing story, adapted from Monckton Hoffe's play which received a royal command performance. The film, a musical romance, stars the beautiful Anna Neagle, who made a sensational success in "Goodnight, Vienna," with Jack Buchanan, and again recently in "The Flag Lieutenant." Now a new Anna Neagle is to be seen—a potential world star, beautiful, talented, and poised. Julie Alardly, the Little Damozel, is a character difficult to play—queen of the Angelique, a bizarre night club, famous for her unusual dancing, her "torch" singing, and her contempt for men. When the whimsical Reeky Poole marries her the event not only causes a sensation but brings a strange transformation to Julie. Her hard voice softens, her reckless manner is forsaken, and her cynical attitude is replaced by the true sweetness of her nature. Then comes the knowledge that Reeky was paid to marry her —and with that realisation a sudden reversal to the old Julie, as she makes her way back to the night club, disillusioned. From then the story moves to an unorthodox but satisfactory climax. Anna Neagle makes this production more than just another picture, and places it in memory as one of the most entertaining films to emerge from any studio. Supplying the other part of the romantic interest is James Rennie, who brings to Ibis portrayal a wealth of stage experience. Athole Stewart and Benita Hume are other members oi the cast. "The Little Damozel" will be preceded by a selection of entertaining featurettes. Box plans are now open at the Civic Theatre from 10 a.m.

Regent Theatre —"Double Harness," 2.30 and 8 p.m. Plaza Theatre—"The Masquerader," 11 a.m., 2.30 p.m., and 8 p.m. Crystal Palace Theatre —"The Stranger's Return," 12, 2.30 p.m., and 8 pjn. Theatre Royal House," 2.30 and 8 p.m. Everybody's Theatre — "Tugboat Annie," 12, 2.30 p.m., and 8 p.m. Liberty Theatre—"The Picture Snatcher" and "Daring Danger," 2.15 p.m. and 7.45 p.m. Majestic Theatre—"Central Airport," 12, 2.30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Grand Theatre —"The Cisco Kid," continuously from 11 a.m.